The Architect for Property Investors & Landowners in Liverpool
What We Do.
We help design-led property investors in Liverpool turn tired properties and challenging sites into high-performing HMOs, flat conversions, and new-build assets.
We hold a 96% planning approval rate across all projects over the last 8+ years.
Liverpool Property Investment & HMO Planning Permission:
Liverpool is one of the UK's leading cities for property investment, driven by its universities, ongoing regeneration, and strong demand for rental and HMO accommodation. Having completed both my Architecture Bachelor's and Master's degrees at the University of Liverpool, the city has always held a special place for me, and I've enjoyed watching it continue to grow since first arriving there in 2007.
Investors should be aware that Liverpool has a HMO Article 4 Direction covering large parts of the city. This means planning permission is required to convert a family home (Use Class C3) into a small HMO (Use Class C4), while larger HMOs (7+ occupants) have always required planning permission. There is no permitted development route for new HMOs within the Article 4 areas, so every proposal must be assessed against Liverpool City Council's planning policies.
For property investors, identifying the right opportunity before purchase is essential. A thorough planning appraisal and a well-prepared planning application can make the difference between a successful investment and a costly mistake. With extensive experience securing planning permission for HMOs and residential developments, we help investors maximise their chances of success and unlock the full potential of their sites.
Our Services
Whether you are new to property or a seasoned investor, we’re here to help.
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Sometimes you don't need a full architectural appointment — you just need the right expert in your corner for an hour.
Our 1-1 Remote Power Hour sessions give you direct access to a Chartered Architect with over a decade of experience working exclusively with property investors. No fluff, no lengthy onboarding — just focused, practical advice on whatever you need. £185 per session. 60 minutes. Pay as you go.
Perfect for:
Reviewing a potential deal or property before making an offer
Optimising a floor plan to maximise rooms, value or rental yield
Getting a second opinion on designs or drawings from another architect
Understanding the planning implications of a project before committing
Building confidence as a newer investor assessing your first projects
Solving a specific design challenge — a tricky layout, an awkward room, a problem space
Sessions are limited each month and go quickly.
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You have a site or a property — now you need to know exactly what it can become. Our Design Feasibility Studies give you that clarity.
Whether you're working with an existing property for conversion or a piece of land for new build development, we take your brief and create 3-5 floor plan or site layout options, maximising the full potential of the site. Once you've reviewed them, we refine the design into a final plan incorporating your feedback — and carry out initial planning research where needed.
This helps you:
Understand the full development potential of your property or land and explore different layout and massing options
Compare multiple strategies or fallback options before settling on an approach
Move forward into the next stage of your project with confidence and clarity
Deliverables:
3-5 site layouts or floor plan options including room sizes and furniture arrangements, presented in a professional PDF booklet
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We’ll guide you through the entire planning application and listed building consent process, handling everything from start to finish—beyond just the drawings.
Our designs are tailored to maximise space while being informed by thorough local planning research, giving you the best chance of securing approval. With a 96% approval rate across 46+ councils (as of Sept 2025), we proactively monitor all applications, stay in regular contact with planning officers, and address any potential issues swiftly.
We’re also experienced in complex planning matters, including Sui Generis HMO applications, Article 4 areas, Conservation Areas, and Listed Buildings.
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While LDCs aren’t mandatory for permitted development (PD) works, we generally recommend submitting one for the following reasons and we can take care of the entire process for you:
Peace of mind – Get formal confirmation from your local planning authority that your works fall under permitted development.
Lender confidence – Some lenders may require an LDC to confirm the works are permitted.
Future sale – An LDC can help prove that your completed works comply, simplifying the selling process.
Neighbour disputes – If issues arise with neighbours, an LDC provides official paperwork showing the works are permitted.
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We offer a flexible post-planning drawing service, including full Building Regulations and tender packages, or individual "bolt-on" drawings like electrical and lighting layouts, as needed.
Please note: We do not provide on-site services, project management, or contract administration. After we provide your drawings, you’ll be responsible for appointing and managing your own contractor.
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Are you a landowner with unused land — whether it’s empty, has existing buildings, or a large side or rear garden?
Thinking about its potential for development but put off by the costs, planning hurdles, and hassle?
That’s where we come in. We offer a no-risk, hassle-free solution. Partner with us to unlock your land’s full potential and maximise your return with our creative, design-focused approach.
Find out more here
We can also partner with Land Sourcers on a JV / profit share basis.
Please note: All our services are offered on a fixed fee basis, priced according to project scope & complexity. Get in touch for a tailored quote — we'll always be upfront about fees from the start.
Architectural Service Pack Download for more info.
Featured Projects
613+
HMO bedrooms & counting since 2017
136+
New dwellings or flats created through new build or conversion
48+
Councils submitted planning applications in
96%
Planning Application Success Rate
New to HMO Investing?
Download our Ultimate Step by Step Cheat Sheet for HMO Conversions completely free for a limited time
Testimonials
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"When people ask for a recommendation for a good architect, I never hesitate to recommend Emma, but not without a small amount of fear that I’m letting my secret weapon out the bag!..."
Jessica Leader, Next Level Living
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" Portfolio Architects are extremely good....Emma was professional, responsive, creative and flexible. We are so happy we finally found a good architect for our business. We definitely recommend them and we will work with them again for sure!"
Berengere Guery, BeeVee
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" Emma and her team are fantastic and went over and above for our tricky project. I wouldn't hesitate to use their services again!"
Kim Opszala, Komo Properties
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"We used Emma recently on a large commercial to multiple HMO's and we are very happy with the plans she created. Emma maximised the space to fit has many bedrooms in as possible without comprising on space. We will certainly be using Emma again on future projects."
Wayne, Nottingham
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Our Clients
We proudly work with some of the UK’s leading SME property developers committed to creating high quality rental accommodation and homes in their respective areas whilst building profitable and long-lasting property portfolios.



